IRVING, TX – For Coach Leatrice Williams, Irving ISD has been more than a workplace—it’s been the backdrop of his journey. From serving as a guest educator to campus security officer, and even joining the district’s paint crew, Williams has worn nearly every hat the district offers. He eventually returned to the classroom as a special education teacher and interim head coach at Houston Middle School before coming back to Irving High School as a Special Education Inclusion English teacher.
This school year, Williams takes on a new role: head coach of the Irving High School boys basketball team. “It means everything that I stayed the course,” he says. “I never stopped believing and finished where I started.”
A 10-year military veteran, Williams credits his diverse experiences for shaping his leadership style. “I’ve seen both sides of the coin, and it taught me to treat everybody with fairness and kindness,” he explains. “I try to learn something new each day—from my peers, from those above me and those alongside me.”
Williams’s focus extends beyond the court. He aims to help every student-athlete reach their potential academically and athletically. “Not every kid is going to get a college scholarship for sports, but I can help every kid earn one for their grades,” he says.
His dedication to the community is equally strong. Each year, he organizes a holiday toy drive, delivering more than 300 toys and over 100 board games to local elementary schools. “Board games create family time,” he notes. “It’s about bringing people together.”
As the season approaches, Williams emphasizes teamwork and unity. “We are one and together. We’re going to run as one, participate as one and be successful as one,” he says.
For those hoping to grow within Irving ISD, Williams offers this advice: “Set a plan and don’t run from ‘difficult.’ Face it and have a plan to overcome it.”
